Subject
Merchants -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Henry Harrison Lewis
Yankee Boys in Japan; Or, The Young Merchants of Yokohama
"Yankee Boys in Japan; Or, The Young Merchants of Yokohama" by Henry Harrison Lewis is a historical fiction novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around two brothers, Grant and Nathaniel "Nattie" Manning, who are trying to salvage their father's failing importing business in Yokohama, Japan, following his death. As they navigate the complexities of business and personal rivalry, they confront challenges from a local competitor, Ralph Black, who threatens their newfound stability. The opening of the novel introduces the brothers, highlighting their contrasting personalities and circumstances; Grant is a crippled youth burdened by his family's legacy while Nattie is impulsive and passionate. They are met with the harsh realities of business when they discover that a debt may have been paid by their deceased father but lacks supporting documentation. Tension quickly escalates when Ralph Black attempts to provoke Nattie, leading them into a web of rivalry and conflict. As they strive to seek justice for their father's affairs, they encounter potential allies and enemies, setting the stage for a tale of resilience, adventure, and the pursuit of honor in the face of adversity.
G. A. (George Alfred) Henty
With the Allies to Pekin: A Tale of the Relief of the Legations
"With the Allies to Pekin: A Tale of the Relief of the Legations" by G. A. Henty is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. It recounts the events surrounding the Boxer Rebellion and the subsequent relief of the besieged Legations in Pekin, focusing on the experiences of young Reginald "Rex" Bateman and his loyal Chinese servant, Ah Lo. The book delves into themes of cultural conflict, bravery, and the complexities of colonialism as the characters navigate dangerous political landscapes in China. The opening of the story introduces Rex, who has just returned to England from China with his uncle, Mr. Bateman. Rex, accustomed to life in China but now facing the trials of English schooling, quickly learns to navigate his new environment. Meanwhile, the prelude sets the stage for impending conflict in China, hinting at the rising threat of the Boxers and the volatile situation for foreigners and missionaries. As Rex becomes more aware of the tension between the Chinese population and foreign influences, his personal mission to reunite with his family amidst chaos unfolds, foreshadowing the adventurous and perilous journey ahead.
Madeline Leslie
Up the ladder; $b or, striving and thriving
"Up the Ladder; or, Striving and Thriving" by Madeline Leslie is a fictional work written in the mid-19th century. The story revolves around a young boy named Harrison, who embodies the values of hard work, perseverance, and determination in the face of adversity. The narrative explores Harrison's experiences and struggles as he strives to improve his family’s circumstances through diligence. The opening portion of the book introduces Harrison as a ten-year-old boy working diligently to shell peas outside a hotel. His hard work stems from a need to support his impoverished family, despite being a child. During this task, he interacts with a little girl named Ella, revealing a contrast in their lives—Ella lives in comfort while Harrison is driven by necessity. Through their conversations, we see Harrison's deep sense of responsibility and the moral lessons imparted by his mother, who instills in him the belief that hard work is virtuous and essential for success. This early passage sets the tone for the lessons of diligence and integrity that will resonate throughout Harrison's journey.
Oliver Optic
Make or Break; or, The Rich Man's Daughter
"Make or Break; or, The Rich Man's Daughter" by Oliver Optic is a novel written in the late 19th century. This story unfolds in Boston and centers around young characters, particularly Leo Maggimore, the adopted son of a barber named André, and Fitzherbert Wittleworth, a conceited young clerk in a banking firm. As Leo navigates his burgeoning responsibilities after an unfortunate incident involving his foster father's health, themes of ambition, adversity, and the bonds of chosen family begin to emerge. The opening of the novel introduces readers to various characters and establishes their relationships and struggles. The scene begins in a barber shop where Fitz Wittleworth is ridiculed for his pretentiousness while receiving a shave, setting a comedic yet critical tone for the social dynamics at play. As tensions escalate, Fitz finds himself in conflict with his employer, Mr. Checkynshaw, while simultaneously, Leo grapples with the impending burden of his family responsibilities as André suffers a stroke. The narrative hints at Leo's determination to support those he loves despite the challenges—suggesting a careful exploration of resilience and moral duty throughout the unfolding story.
Agnes Giberne
Miss Primrose
"Miss Primrose" by Agnes Giberne is a domestic novel written in the late 19th century. It follows capable, plain-spoken Pauline Ogilvie as she tries to steady her feckless father’s finances, find respectable work, and face the emotional crosscurrents stirred by the genial Leonard Rudge and the captivating Viola Primrose—while an old tie between her father and “Miss Primrose” complicates matters. Set between a quiet seaside town and London drawing rooms, the tale weighs duty, economy, and pride against the hazards of first impressions and romantic misreadings. The opening of the novel shows Pauline pressing her indecisive father to write an old friend for advice as their funds dwindle, while a kind fellow-lodger, Leonard Rudge, becomes part of their daily life and Pauline’s quiet hope. After weeks of delay, a postcard summons Pauline to London as a temporary companion, where she meets the sparkling Viola Primrose and learns that the “real” Miss Primrose is Viola’s aunt, Mrs. Palmer—her father’s former fiancée—now convalescent and wealthy. Rudge proves closely connected to them, and Viola’s impending marriage to him is treated as a given. Returning with them to the seaside for a brief visit, a cliffside picnic ends in danger when rockfall strikes; Pauline pushes Viola to safety and is herself injured, leaving the relationships and motives around her charged with new feeling.
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